It's
late fall. The sky is blue and the sun is bright. Then the weather forecaster
brings your autumn bliss to a screeching halt with these chilling words:
Clear tonight with chance of frost.

Fortunately, it's possible to predict whether frost
will hit your plants by being an informed gardener. Walk outside and check
for these signs. Then, if necessary, spring into action. (To learn what
weather conditions are predicted for your area, check in with The
Old Farmer's Almanac).

First, look skyward: Clear, calm skies and falling
afternoon temperatures are the perfect conditions for frost. If you see
clouds, you're in luck, because clouds act like a blanket, trapping
heat and keeping air temperatures warm enough to prevent frost.

Feel the breeze: If temperatures are falling fast
under clear skies, and the wind is blowing from the northwest, a hard
freeze may be on its way. On the other hand, a gentle breeze is good because
it prevents the coldest air from settling to the ground.

Humdity and moisture: Just as clouds and gentle winds
are your friends, so are humidity and moisture. When moisture condenses
out of the air in the form of ice crystals it gives off heat, which protects
plants from extensive damage.

Where your garden is located also plays a role. High
altitude gardens are more likely to be hit by a freeze. At the same time,
if your garden sits in a low spot, frost will settle there like ice cream
in the bottom of a bowl.

So you've checked the weather conditions and decided
that yes, Jack Frost is knocking on your door and it's time to protect
your plants. The first and best thing to do is cover your plants. Use
5-gallon buckets, bed sheets, shower curtains, tarps, anything to provide
a tent to trap heat and prevent ice crystals from forming on the plants.

Remember, chance favors the prepared gardener!

Until next time, keep your hands in the dirt, and your dreams on a star.